L2 Engineering Hydraulic Power Tools

What are hydraulic tools.

Hydraulic power tools are used for the generation, control, and transmission of power by pressurized liquids. Examples of hydraulic tools include jacks, presses, and impact wrenches.

How do they work?

Power is transmitted by controlled circulation of pressurized fluid, usually a water-soluble oil of water-glycol mixture, to a motor that converts it into a mechanical output capable of doing work on a load.

What safety precautions do you need to take?

Wear goggles and protective clothing when in use of the hydraulic. 

How do you maintain them? 

Before using the tool make sure that they are clean. The biggest thing that leads the machine to failure is dirt and contamination.

Give 3 examples of hydraulic tools in the workshop (you are likely to come across) 

• Hydraulic riveters
  
  
  

• Hydraulic punches
  
  
  
  

L2 Engineering Power Tools

Describe/ Explain what is a mains powered power tool.

Mains electricity is the general-purpose alternating-current electric power supply. In New Zealand, the Mains voltage is 230V. Which is an alternating current (a.c.) This means that the current is constantly changing direction. Which means it changes direction and back again 50 times per second. Mains powered tools are the tools Mains power can only be used on (eg not battery-powered tools). 

Three mains-powered tools that I have used are.

Belt Sander

Air Compressor

Grinder

Describe/explain the task you used it for.

Power tools are used in industry, in construction, in the garden, for housework tasks such as cooking, cleaning, and around the house for purposes of driving (fasteners), drilling, cutting, shaping, sanding, grinding, routing, polishing, painting, heating and more.

What to look for….
What do I do if something is? (Fault Reporting )

Check the handle and body casing of the tool for cracks or other damage. If the tool has auxiliary or double handles, check to see that they installed securely. Inspect cords for defects: check the power cord for cracking, fraying, and other signs of wear or faults in the cord insulation. If your tools won’t start, it could hint at some larger electrical problems, including a short or part malfunction. Your tool starts but the power level is so weak that you’d probably be better off with a manual screwdriver. Or handsaw. Or bicycle pump. When your power tools lose their oomph (and it’s not a low battery), the most likely cause are old, worn carbon brushes that need replacing. The carbon brushes are the small carbon blocks that transfer the electrical current from your power source to the tool’s motor itself. These wear out through use. If your tool is losing power and doesn’t have the speed or strength it should, it could be an indicator that it is time to replace these parts.

What is meant by “RCD” Why is it important

RCD stands for Residual Current Device. It is a device that is designed to prevent any fatal electric shocks if you touch anything that might be live. Such as a bare wire. An RCD will most likely be used in the workplace, or at home.

What is double insulation?

Appliances and tools of this type are called "double insulated". They have two levels of insulating materials between the electrical parts of the appliance and any parts on the outside that you touch. ... Double insulation construction of appliances and tools allows the manufacturer to produce a lower-cost product.

Hazards of extension cords.

Why are extension cords a safety hazard? If the extension cord is covered, heat is unable to escape and could result in a fire. Make sure extension cords are visible and if at all possible, not running across highly trafficked areas. They can be a trip hazard for people walking through the area.

PPE when using mains-powered tools.

Always wear appropriate PPE to protect you from the specific hazards presented by power tools, such as dust exposure and projectiles. PPE such as goggles, dust masks, gloves, hard hats, and safety boots should be worn where appropriate.

L2 Engineering Air Tools

What are Pneumatic air tools/air compressors?

Pneumatic tools are powered by compressed air. The most common types of air-powered hand tools are buffers, grinders, nailing guns, drills, jackhammers, chipping hammers, stapling guns, riveting guns, sanders, and wrenches.

Different types of air compressors. 

1. Rotary screw compressors

2. Reciprocating air compressor

3. Axial compressor

4. Centrifugal compressors

The purpose of an air filter is to filter out the air that circulates through your heating and cooling system.

Safety when using an air compressor.

Wear safety goggles when working with compressed air. Wear face shields with safety goggles on top of the mask. Also, wear gloves that the air won't penetrate the gloves. For example rubber and leather.

PPE when using air tools

Use safety goggles, appropriate footwear, hearing protection, and protective clothing. 

Different types of air tool connections

Specific safety when using 

Impact driver: Read the manual that is included with the machine. Keep the machine clean, make sure that where you are working is clean and tidy, make sure the machine is clean before use.

Air ratchet: Make sure you have safety goggles and side protectors. Never wear loose clothing, watches, ties, ring, or jewelry. 

Dust of gun: Don't dust off clothing. Do not blow towards the skin. Make sure that the machine is working fine. Also, make sure that you are wearing full PPE.

Air riveter: When using this machine install a safety clip or retainer to prevent things from being ejected when being used. Don't ever point towards people. Noise is also a thing that is associated with pneumatic tools.